Halloween Countdown 2019, Day 23

Why would anyone go out of the way to visit a graveyard intentionally? In addition to the fascinating stories they contain, cemeteries can be open-air sculpture parks full of one-of-a-kind artwork. They provide habitats for birds and wildlife, as well as arboretums and gardens of surprising beauty. Cemeteries appeal to art lovers, amateur sociologists, birdwatchers, master gardeners, historians, hikers, genealogists, picnickers, and anyone who just wants to stop and smell the roses. Our relationships with the places we visit can be deepened and enriched by learning the stories of those who came – and stayed – before us. 

– 199 Cemeteries to See Before You Die, Loren Rhoads

I’m thoroughly enjoying (and planning trips around the suggestions in) 199 Cemeteries to See Before You Die, which covers sites around the world. I’ve visited many cemeteries in my day, but only nine of them are listed in the book as worthy of the “must see” title. I need to get moving!

(Photo by AHS, blood-splatter nerd manicure “Killer” by Espionage Cosmetics.)

For the record, here are the cemeteries listed in the book that I have visited (with a few photos by Yours Truly).

* Old Churchyard of Jamestowne, Colonial National Historic Park in Jamestown, Virginia, United States (See below.)



* George Washington’s Tomb in Mount Vernon, Virginia, United States

* Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, United States

* Swan Point Cemetery in Providence, Rhode Island, United States

* Westminster Burying Ground in Baltimore, Maryland, United States (See below.)



* Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Churchyard, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Townsend, Tennessee, United States 

* Mound Cemetery in Marietta, Ohio, United States

* Westminster Abbey in London, England

* Hólavallagarður Cemetery in Reykjavik, Iceland (See below.)

Do you have any favorite cemeteries?

If so, what (and where) are they?